Harrismith, now called iNtabazwe, is in the foothills of the Drakensberg, is a large town about 260 km south-east of Johannesburg in the Free State province of South Africa The town at the foot of the Platberg was originally named Vrededorp, and laid out on Elands River in 1849 by Robert Moffat (Son of the famous missionary) about 25km from the present location. Due to water shortages the town was moved to the farm Gemsbokhoek on the Wilge River in 1850 and named after British Governor Harry Smith. In 1874, it became a municipality and during the diamond rush at Kimberley, the town became a busy staging post on the Natal transport route. Hotels, stores and public buildings were built to accommodate the traffic. Harrismith was a major base during the Anglo-Boer War and visitors can see the numerous battle sites, blockhouses and a military cemetery from this period. Today, Harrismith is the centre of one of the five wool producing districts in Southern Africa. Places to see include: Harrismith Town Hall - A graceful sandstone and brick building built in 1907, and a National Monument. Harrismith Wildflower Gardens - Founded in 1967 as a botanical garden these contain about 20 % of the Drakensberg region's flora. Located around two dams fed by mountain springs. A perfect picnic spot. Platberg - The most famous landmarks in the Eastern Free State is the 9 km long, 2,377 metre high, Platberg. Well preserved San Bushmen paintings can be visited in one of local caves about 5 kilometres out of town.

From Johannesburg take the N3 south towards Durban. Pass by Villiers, and Warden to Harrismith (About 280 km).

BANKING:
Standard Bank Money Changer - USD, GBP, EURO.

FOOD:
Bakery is in the Shoprite or Pick n Pay.

HEALTH CARE:
Hospital no. for Thebe Public Hospital.
Doctor no. for Dr. Feyt & van Zyl.

MECHANICAL REPAIR & TOW-IN:
After hours no. for towing: +27(0)82 455 8322.

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